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As an avid player of FMV (Full Motion Video) detective games, I was intrigued to embark on a journey through The Isle Tide Hotel, a mysterious and enigmatic setting developed by Wales Interactive and Interflix Media. Here's a detailed account of my experience, filled with twists, disappointments, and moments of intrigue.

Firstly, let's discuss the visual aspect of the game. The introduction of the 4K DLC was a welcome addition, even for those without a 4K display like myself. Although I couldn't fully appreciate the enhanced resolution, it's commendable that the developers catered to a variety of players. The aesthetic improvements in camera-work and color were noticeable, contributing to a more immersive experience compared to previous titles.

Now, onto the heart of the game—the story. The premise of rescuing a missing daughter from a secretive cult at the Isle Tide Hotel sets the stage for an enthralling narrative. However, I couldn't shake the feeling that the story was underutilized. It wasn't until the final moments of the game that the pieces of the puzzle began to fall into place, leaving me yearning for more substantial revelations throughout my journey. Moreover, the limited interactions with characters and the lack of impactful choices left much to be desired in terms of player engagement.

One aspect that particularly disappointed me was the portrayal of violence and gore (game store description has a content warning for frequent violence and gore), which fell short of the expectations set by the game's description. The sparse instances of bloodshed and the poorly executed fight scene failed to evoke the intended sense of tension and unease, ultimately detracting from the overall experience.

Replayability is a hallmark of FMV games, offering the opportunity to uncover hidden endings and explore alternate paths. However, despite the promise of multiple outcomes, I couldn't help but feel underwhelmed by the lack of significant variation in my initial playthrough. I felt pushed along, like "on-rails", and didn't see much opportunity for variation. The ending "maze" served more as a tedious obstacle than a meaningful gameplay element, raising questions about its purpose and relevance to the overarching narrative.

Additionally, I encountered discrepancies between the game's advertised features and my actual gameplay experience. The absence of side quests and a real-time personality tracker left me questioning whether I had overlooked crucial elements or if they were simply absent from the game altogether. This disparity between expectation and reality further underscored the missed opportunities for deeper immersion and player agency.

Despite its shortcomings, The Isle Tide Hotel offers a unique and intriguing story that, with further development and refinement, could reach its full potential. As a fervent fan of FMV games, I remain hopeful for future improvements and expansions that will elevate the player experience. Ultimately, my first impression of The Isle Tide Hotel warrants a critical eye tempered with optimism for its potential upon subsequent playthroughs.

Rating: 6/10